Redwood City, CA – December 27, 2010 - The Redwood City Police Department is advising the public that celebrating the New Year by shooting a gun into the air is not only illegal, it can hurt or kill people.

In response to random gunfire on New Year’s Eves in the past, the Redwood City Police Department announces "Operation Silent Night 2010." The Police Department hopes to reduce random gunfire through a program of education, suppression, and prosecution. The Department will be using its "Shot Spotter" gunshot locater system, which determines the exact location of any firearm discharged in the city. The reckless discharge of a firearm is a felony under section 246.3 of the Penal Code and carries up to a three-year prison sentence.

The Department has established a special gunshot telephone hotline, which is (650) 780-7639, and urges the public to call in the event gunfire is heard, particularly on New Year’s Eve. Through increased public awareness, the Redwood City Police have seen a significant decrease in calls of random gunfire, and attribute it to this program.

Redwood City Police officers will be investigating and tracking down any individuals shooting guns into the air. Arrests will be made when possible and violators will be booked at San Mateo County Jail.

The Department's goal in using the "Shot Spotter" system, increased patrols, and public information is to reduce or eliminate the incidence of gunfire in celebration of New Years Eve. The public is asked to use the gunshot hotline, celebrate without the use of firearms, and to have a safe and happy New Years Eve. See the Redwood City Police Department website at www.redwoodcity.org/police.

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